How to Buy a Pre-Construction Home

When it comes to buying a pre construction home, the process is very different from buying a home that is already built. Buying a home pre-construction comes with many advantages many of which allow you to have a say in the design of your home. Because the home is still being built you may have a few questions about the process of buying a home pre-construction. To make it easier, we’ve put together a list of some of the things that will happen when you buy a home before it’s built.

1. Find your home builders. To start the process off you’ll want to do your research and find the home builders you want to work with. Make sure they belong to a home builders association and that they come with raving reviews.

2. Lock down your design. Once you find who you want to work with, you’ll need to decide which home design you would like to purchase. Most home builders have a few different designs and floor plans you can choose from. Ask questions and make sure you find the perfect home design for you and your family.

3. Decide on your finishes and upgrades. This is where the fun part comes in. Most home builders will have a list of standard features that come with the home. You’ll be able to choose certain things such as dark or light cabinets depending on the options available. You’ll also get a chance to work in some upgrades such as upgrading from laminate floors to real hardwood. These upgrades come at a price and need to be factored into your budget.

4. Get it in writing. Once you have decided on your home design and features, you’ll want to make sure to get it all down in writing. It would be really disappointing if you tell the builders you want white cabinets but end up with dark cabinets simply because no one put it in the contract. Putting deadlines and features in writing protect both you and the home builder during the process.

5. Find a great lender. Do your research and find a lender that makes you feel comfortable with the home buying process. Often times home builders will require you to use their preferred lender to ensure you’ll get the proper funding. Even if they don’t require you to use their lender, you should still look into them as an option. Sometimes, home builders will give incentives for working with their preferred lender. Whoever you decide to work with, make sure you’re comfortable with their knowledge and guidance at this time.

6. Get an inspection. Even new construction homes need an inspection. Home builders will perform their own inspections along the way but you should get your own inspection from a private company. This will help you to get an quick fixes out of the way before you move in.

7. Get your finances in order. Be preparedto pay closing costs between 2 and 5%. You may want to buy some new furniture to fit into your new home, as well. You might even need to factor in HOA fees. Use the time it takes the builders to construct your home to get your finances in order.

8. Be patient. Building a home takes time. Weather and other factors can cause delays. You’ll need to sit tight and be patient, everything great takes time.

Buying a home pre-construction is a unique experience. From picking out your design to selecting the features that will make your home yours. If you’re looking to buy a home pre-construction check out our available homes page to find your perfect home.

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Things to do in the fall to ready your home for winter.

October and November are ideal times to winterize your home in North Carolina. The days are finally starting to cool off, but we likely have not had a freeze yet.

Tackle these tasks to make sure your home stays warm throughout winter and your exterior looks good in the spring.

1. Rake your leaves.

Rake your leaves to make sure no piles of leaves are interfering with your grass’ ability to breath. Grass needs sunlight and oxygen to stay healthy, even when it’s dormant.

*Helpful Tip: Use your leaves for compost! If you don’t have a compost bin set up, it can be incredibly easy to make one. Designate an area in your yard and toss leaves, grass trimmings, and compostable food waste in there to produce fertile soil for your garden in the spring.

**Helpful Tip: Fertilize your lawn to help with weed prevention and healthy growth in the spring.

2. Speaking of leaves, this is also a good time to clean out your gutters.

Even if you don’t have a ton of leaves on the ground, you might be surprised with the amount of leaves and debris you can find in your gutters. For the sake of your gutters, siding, and foundation, it’s important to keep these clear for proper drainage.

3. Check foundation and roof for cracks or leaks.

If you are reading this, you are likely a Thayer Homes homeowner, meaning your foundation and roof are relatively very new. Although you are not likely to find any issues, it’s always wise to check for them before finding out through catastrophe, especially in the cold winter.

*Helpful tip: A roof rake will help you clear off accumulated snow on your roof, which is built to hold up to 4ft of snow before possible collapse.

4. Protect your pipes from freezing.

Remove the water hose from the spout connected to the homebefore freezing temps. If hoses are left attached, leftover water in the hose will freeze and likely expand into the pipe. If the ice expands into the pipe, there is a chance it could cause the pipe to burst and leak. Also make sure to turn off your A/C water valve to prevent water collecting and freezing in the unit.

Helpful Tip:You can purchase pipe insulation from your local hardware store to help prevent freezing.